Bahrs wins best in show

April 15, 2008

Special to the QCS

A young Tucumcari artist, Elizabeth “Tomoko” Bahrs, 18, has been awarded best of show for her entry in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s annual Junior Duck Stamp Contest for New Mexico, according to a press release from the federal agency.

Bahrs depiction of a male and female Wood duck, entitled “Honeymooners” was selected on March 27 and she will be presented with a $500 scholarship at the awards ceremony on May 10, the release said.

Her entry also will be entered in the National Junior Duck Stamp Contest. As a competitor in the national contest, Bahrs is eligible to win $5,000 and a trip to Washington, D.C., to participate in the First Day of Sales ceremony this summer. Best of show entries also will be displayed at waterfowl festivals, wildlife museums, and galleries throughout the United States.

The Junior Duck Stamp Conservation and Design Program is an art and science-based program developed for schools by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to teach students about wetland habitat and waterfowl conservation.

Entries were judged in four grade categories: K-3, 4-6, 7-9, and 10-12.

Three 1st place winners were selected for each group and from these winners the best of show was selected.

Bahrs, who is home schooled, was the first place winner in the 10th through 12th grade category.